crutches Archives - Detroit Duchess

Life on Crutches: Step One Get a Stylish Backpack

We are nearing the end of my journey with crutches and a broken foot. I got great news at the doctor last week and was able to stop using my crutches and put weight on my foot again. I still have to wear the walking boot, but it has made such a difference being able to get around on my own! I can’t wait until I can actually wear a normal shoe.

Since my journey is coming to an end, I thought I would impart some advice to the next person that might need to use crutches. Aside from getting flats (see my previous post here) and getting crutch pads (see my previous post here) you need to get a stylish backpack. When you try to go to work, out with friends, out to eat, you need a way to carry your laptop or phone and other personal belongings. I tried to carry my purse around, but it really threw off my balance with the crutches, so my husband let me borrow his backpack to carry my stuff around. Let me tell you it was a lifesaver! There is no way I could have done it without that backpack.

If I wouldn’t have spent all of my money on flats, the next thing I would have purchased is a stylish backpack…and who knows, I still might need one to lug my laptop around from home, to work, to school. Here are my top stylish backpack choices for life on crutches:

Adidas Climacool 2 Backpack ($46)

I carried my husband’s Adidas backpack around and really loved it, but I would need to get a girlier version. This would be great for traveling or hiking.

Prada Backpack ($795)

I have wanted a Prada Backpack ever since Larisa Oleynik wore hers in 10 Things I Hate About You. It is stylish and gorgeous! It also comes in black, blue and red.

Marc Jacobs Preppy Nylon Backpack ($248)

I love the color of this backpack!

Coach Signature Backpack ($278)

I love all things Coach and this is just sleek and sophisticated.

Michael Kors Jetset Backpack ($328)

I can’t decide which color I like best, maybe white for summer.

Let me know if you have any other suggestions for the list.

I Broke My Foot and Have No Flats

Last weekend I broke my foot on our trip to Petoskey. I tripped in my wedges and rolled onto my foot. At first we were hoping it was just a bad sprain, but a trip to the doctor confirmed the break. I was lucky enough to get a soft cast which means that I can take it off at night and to shower.

I won’t lie to you and tell you that being on crutches easy, because it’s not. It is probably one of the most challenging things I have ever done. I am a pretty independent person, so being reliant on others to get around has been difficult. My husband has been amazing and I am so thankful to have him taking care of me. Everyone from coworkers to complete strangers have stopped to help me open doors, carry my bag and even pull up my car. I have been overwhelmed by the kindness I have received from others this week. That has definitely helped to keep my spirits up.

On to the fun part of today’s blog – now that I am on crutches for 4-6 weeks, I’ve realized that I have no flats and I can’t wear any of my heels. I am not a flats person, but breaking my foot has given me a reason to shop for some cute flats that I can wear on my right foot during the day. Here are the top picks on my shopping list:

Michael Kors Fulton Moc ($99)

I recently traveled to Dallas for work, and one of my coworkers were sporting these adorable flats. I loved the metallic look and think they would work with a number of outfits.

TOMS Brown Gisele Flats ($84)

If you haven’t heard of TOMS before, it is a great concept. Buy a pair of shoes and another pair of shoes gets donated to someone in need. Not to mention that the TOMS ballet flats are darling. Since I am a 10, I am still waiting for a pair in my size to come up on eBay, but I hope to get these soon.

TOMS Purple Reptile Women’s Black Sequins Classics ($68)

TOMS also has a classic style and I have wanted to get a pair for a while now. I wanted to get something different and these purple reptile sequin TOMS are perfect for me. They would definitely give me something to look forward to over the next 4-6 weeks.

Coach Dalia Flat ($138)

I’ve been stalking a few different Coach flats on eBay, but I saw these available in my size on the website. Supercute and they look really comfortable.

Skechers GOWalk Recovery Slip On ($59)

These shoes are supposed to be super comfortable and after placing all your weight on one foot and crutches all day you need something comfy. Plus, who doesn’t love hot pink?

Let me know if you have any cute and comfortable flat picks. If you have any tips for adjusting to life with crutches, please share them with me. So far I have a rolling office chair at home that I have been using to get around.